Review of Defiant

[Bradley Shelvie]

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Defiant" by J M Bloodworth.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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If not for the "real" nightmares he always had (real because he would dream about being assaulted and wake up with scars in the morning) and constant attacks by random people and demon-like creatures, Chance would be living an easy life. Many girls fell for him, and he had just enough money to buy whatever he pleased. But some unknown enemies—some paranormal—are baying for his blood and are intent on killing him.

Told from the first-person perspective, Defiant by J M Bloodworth has Chance as the protagonist. It tells the story of Chance's fear of the unknown, terror, and secrets people he trusts are holding from him. Even though he has no real friends (maybe close, save for Mrs. Hackett Merida, who he shared an extraordinary bond with), danger surrounds him, and he does not know who to trust. Even his principal, Mr. Jenson, who turned out to be one of the demons, tried to kill him. What's worse? He (Chance) could as well be one of them—especially after he rips off the flesh from someone's neck and eats it. Chance has so many unanswered questions.

To me, and for most of its entirety, the book sounded more of a mystery book. I love mysteries and I guess that made the book more enjoyable. I enjoyed following along as Chance's life reeled out from the pages and learning that there was more to him than the "cool-boy-and-girl's-favorite" person that he initially is portrayed to be. He suddenly changes from the gentleman who knows his way around girls and cool-until-provoked type to something unexpected. Even though there's a hint into what he seemingly would develop into at the beginning, a bit of suspense is maintained throughout so that it doesn't feel like a spoiler.

The well-planned and nerve-wracking action also added to the thrill, and that added quite an amazing touch of life to the story. The eroticism (ranging from light to quite steamy, though nothing extreme as it didn't go into so much detail) also made the reading experience quite sensual. I, however, find fault that the characters were school-going teenagers, including Chance himself. I also find some venues where they let out the steam quite odd but interesting.

I would recommend—or would have loved it more—if the scene at the beginning of the book was moved a bit forward. It's still okay in its original form, but moving it to a later scene would add a dramatic effect to the book and heighten the thrill and suspense.

The book was an amazing read to me. The plot was perfect and the narration was captivating. The thrill and action scenes, too, were meticulously written. However, there are critical remarks that Chance makes about women's dressing (nudity against modesty actually) and Christianity (both of which he calls "the stereotypes"), which won't sit well with some readers. However, they did not affect me as I am always open to all opinions. I don't think there are negative things to note about the book, so I'll give it a 4 out of 4 considering all the above factors. I did find an error, but the book seems professionally edited.

This book will be perfect for readers inclined towards action-packed mystery and thriller books that have the "demons-versus-humans" kind of plot.

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Defiant
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[TheGayOne12]

I'm sure this novel would have me on the edge of my seat. Thank you for the fabulous review!

[cutemami]

Chance seems like a character that has a depth that I like. The premise of the book is also intriguing hence I would love to read it.

[Aisha Yakub]

I like mystery and action, but I'm not sure if the plot is my thing. Great review.

[Essy Nma]

Chance is not the only one that experiences this type of challenge. I am glad this boom is realistic. Thanks for the review.

[The Holy Grail]

Seems a nice book. It's pretty scary having unknown enemies. Wonderful review!

[Essy moonlight11]

Your review's summary is really captivating. This seems a wonderful book too. Nice review!

[Ceeco2002]

Seems like an intriguing novel. Great review!

[Ay Obaj]

I love it when books storyline are constructed perfectly, and contains every single element of thrill. A book like this will surely wow any reader. Thanks for a honest review.

[NetMassimo]

I might be old for a story centered around teenagers but this seems like an engaging and well-constructed fantasy/horror novel. Thank you for your great review!